Wine Reviews

90

Santa Rita Estates 2024 True Heroes Malbec, Argentina ($16)

Creamy and dense, with a generous dollop of boysenberry and vanilla. Seamless and broad, with a hint of white pepper and a splash of red tea.

92

Scheid 2022 District 7 Cabernet Sauvignon, Monterey, CA ($16)

A showcase of savory spices lift from the first whiff, paired with plum and cranberry walking a tightrope of charcoal smoke. Darker fruits emerge upon tasting, with a texture of plushness and polish. Savory notes cascade on the finish with buoyant tannins to firm up without taking center stage.

93

Sean Minor 2023 Signature Series Cabernet Sauvignon, North Coast, CA ($28)

A very versatile Cabernet with strong appeal in both flavor and structure. Open aromas and flavors recalling Bing cherries and red berries lead the way, with just enough tannin and to provide grip in the finish and allow this to perform well either before dinner or during a meal.

92

Sean Minor 2024 California Series Sauvigngon Blanc, CA ($18)

This is an over-achiever for California appellation Sauvignon. Medium-bodied, it shows ripe flavors including classic melon and citrus notes, but also a suggestion of tropical fruits. The aromas aren’t as grassy or herbal as usual for Sauvignon Blanc, but the ripe and fruity aromas lend coherence to the wine’s overall character.

92

Smith Bench 2023 Chardonnay, Arroyo Seco, Monterey ($17)

This Chardonnay features golden gala apples dusted with cinnamon, honeydew, and a touch of buttered popcorn. The mouthfeel showcases a pleasant tension and rounded corners, with floral notes and a gentle kiss of white pepper and spice.

90

Spasso Prosecco D.O.C. Spumante Extra Dry NV, Veneto, Italy ($17)

Subtle sweetness in this fresh sparkler works very well with the Glera grape’s faintly floral aromas, and a light tinge of bitterness in the finish also serves as a counterpoint to the wine’s fruity sweetness. The effervescence is abundant but soft in texture, lending a creaminess that is very pleasant, with good acidity that enhances refreshment value.

90

Spike Wine 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon, North Coast, CA ($25)

Spike Wine 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon, North Coast, CA ($25)This Cab commemorates Spike, a loyal canine who inspired his owner during hard times. Fruit forward and ultra ripe, with a flash flood of brandied cherries. Sweet tobacco and Mediterranean herbs are sprinkled with white pepper, dousing the palate with a juicy array of red licorice and berries on the finish.

96

St. Supéry 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon, Dollarhide Estate Vineyard, Napa Valley ($125)

Savory, spicy and still fresh, with overtones of black olive, toasted almond, and plum and undertones of graphite and leather. Black cherry weaves through its sinewy, well-structured frame.